Alaska Wilderness Journeys

Active Adventure

3-Day Talkeetna Drainage
Mountaineering & Whitewater Rafting
Fly, fish, Hike/Climb & Whitewater
6 day/5 night

This trip travels the length of the Talkeetna drainage - exploring the source glaciers and open country in the headwaters and picking up momentum through the 14-mile long whitewater canyon and concluding at its confluence with the Susitna at the town of Talkeetna. Late June offers endless daylight for limitless hiking & climbing at Talkeetna Pass. Air taxi shuttle drops the group 30 miles downstream of the glacier to rendevous with rafts, guides and gear. Camp below rugged mountain peaks in the northern boreal forest. Enjoy delicious food and watch for bear as they follow spawning salmon upstream. One phenomenal day of whitewater caps off the trip.

Typical Day

DAY 1:
Rendezvous as a group to transfer gear to drybags and review maps and plans. We will fly in by bushplane into the spectacular Talkeetna Mountains and land on a tundra runway a short hike from the glacier. Set camp and hike local area following orientation. Caribou, grizzley and marmot frequent this site.

DAY 2-3:
Challenge yourself today on the glacier - learn the basics of route selection, roped travel & ice climbing. These massive ice sheets are fascinating to explore with a knowledgable guide. Great opportunities for hikes from camp as well. Make the most of the midnight sun.

Day 4: Air taxis swoop in for a transfer from the Pass to a gravel bar launch site on the upper river. Rig boats for a scenic float on this river' braided beginnings. Look for bleached antlers and eagles perched on snags. We'll camp downstream of Prairie Creek - an impressive salmon spawning stream.

Day 5 Climb the banks of the steepening canyon wall to scout the entrance to the Talkeetna Canyon…the rapids get progressively longer and bigger. Every other rapid we will scout and run from the boat. A stop for lunch will be the only real break in the action. Beyond the Pearly Gates the river becomes milder and flows past several side stream confluences. Wind down on this float section and make camp riverside.


Day 6: River time takes over by now - our schedule can adjust to the group's pace and preferences. On clear days, we'll glimpse the Alaska Range as we approach town. Arrive Talkeetna late afternoon.

Age range, type of group

This trip is appropriate for ages 14 to adult. No prior experience required - a range of hikes can be tailored to the interests of the group.

Sleeping and meals

tent camping & meals in camp - campfires where wood is available. All meals and snack sacks provided from start of trip. Preferences solicited and provided for.

Restrictions

The trip is not appropriate for pets - we will be flying in small airplanes.

Rates & Availability

6-day trip: $1575.00 per person

Call 800.349.0064 or (907)733-2230 to make a reservation. We reuire a 50% deposit to secure your space on a scheduled trip. Custom itineraries available for groups of 4 or more.

Discounts Offered

Discounts available for groups of 6 or more. Please call for quote.